FC Barcelona left-back Alejandro Balde could be left out of the squad for Sunday evening's match against Elche amid growing transfer speculation. The 22-year-old defender has reportedly emerged as a candidate to leave the Spanish club before the summer transfer window closes.
Journalist Gerard Romero reported during a live stream that Balde is on his way out of Catalonia and may not feature in the opening league fixture of the season. According to market data website Transfermarkt, the defender carries an estimated transfer value of 50 million euros. Manchester United is unofficially reported to be interested in securing his signature.
Head coach Hansi Flick addressed the reports surrounding the young defender during a pre-match press conference. The German manager described questions regarding Balde's future as difficult, noting that the player possesses tremendous quality. Flick emphasized that his primary requirement for every squad member is full readiness and the inner conviction to compete for their position.
Flick explained that he monitors player performance and attitude daily to determine whether individuals are ready to perform at the highest level. He stressed that team success depends entirely on collective unity and that he requires total commitment from every player in the squad.
Barcelona summer transfer window activity
The potential departure comes as Barcelona navigate the final days of the European transfer window, which closes at midnight between August 31 and September 1. Sporting director Deco has already overseen significant additions to the squad, completing deals for Rodri, Karim Adeyemi, and Anthony Gordon.
Despite those signings, Barcelona still need to address a gap in attack created by recent departures. Striker Robert Lewandowski joined Major League Soccer club Chicago Fire, while Ferran Torres departed Spain to sign for French champions Paris Saint-Germain.
Club president Joan Laporta and Deco have been pursuing Atletico Madrid forward Julian Alvarez. The Argentine international reportedly indicated that he is interested exclusively in a move to Barcelona. However, Atletico responded to those demands by entering negotiations with Arsenal, where manager Mikel Arteta is eager to sign the player.
Alejandro Balde career at La Masia and Barcelona
Balde developed through La Masia, Barcelona's renowned youth academy, before advancing to the senior squad. He made his official debut for the club on September 14, 2021, coming on during a 3-0 defeat against Bayern Munich in the UEFA Champions League group stage.
Since making his first-team breakthrough, the Spanish defender has made 168 official appearances for Barcelona across all competitions. During his senior career with the club, he has recorded three goals and provided 21 assists.
